Infected ear for over 6 months with large bump inside the piercing.

Question

I got my ears pierced 6 months ago and it's still infected. My ear lobe is so sensitive that whenever i touch it it quickly becomes hot and red and is always very swollen and thick (lobe area). Watery fluid comes out whenever i drain it but it just keeps coming back. I have been using antibacterial creams ect. But nothing seems to be working. What can i do to fix this? Will it be like this forever? Can i get more piercings?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Earlobe surgery is composed of several techniques that can either repair torn earlobes (split earlobes) or correct overly redundant earlobe tissue from piercings or genetics or stretching. Our HIDEF earlobe repair includes a recontouring of the earlobe contour using multilayered sutures to reapproximate the curvature of the earlobe; while simultaneously restoring contour to the ear. In patients with pixie ears after facelift surgery, an alternate technique is used to reduce the dependance of the earlobe on the facelift flap. Facelift surgery can reshape the earlobe and this requires restoration. Sutures are usually taken out within 10 days and the wound is repierced in 4-6 weeks thereafter. Keloid scars must be addressed in patients with known history for scarring.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This forum is for plastic surgery, not piercing advice. And without pictures or an exam, it is hard to give you specific advice. However, based on what you are describing, I would advise you remove all foreign material (jewelry, etc) and allow the area to heal completely. This may take several week and a course of antibiotics. After that, I would wait 6 months before attempting the piercing again. This infection may result in the buildup of scar tissue or keloid that may need to be dealt with. Hope this helps!

Infected ear for over 6 months with large bump inside the piercing.

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Everything you need to know about Earlobe Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Infected ear for over 6 months with large bump inside the piercing.

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Earlobe Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.